Norton Motorcycles F1 1990–1991
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| Manufacturer | Norton Motors Limited |
|---|---|
| Also called | P55 |
| Production | 1990–1991 |
| Engine | 588 cc (35.9 cu in) liquid-cooled twin-rotor Wankel engine |
| Transmission | duplex primary chain, 5-ratio gearbox, single-row final drive chain |
| Wheelbase | 1465mm |
| Dimensions | L: 2060mm W: 740mm H: 1130mm |
| Fuel capacity | 20 l (4.4 imp gal; 5.3 US gal) |
The Norton F1 is a road-going sports motorcycle that Norton based on its RCW588 racing motorcycle. The F1 was offered in only one livery: black with gold decals and grey and gold stripes, to reflect John Player's sponsorship of Norton's race team. It was distinctive for using a 588 cc liquid-cooled twin-rotor Wankel engine. This unit was developed from the motor in the Norton Commander.
Given the fact that Norton was enjoying racing victories again with its rotaries in the late '80s, it seemed odd that the first production bike it built around the engine was the Commander tourer. That was remedied in 1990 with the launch of the F1, which was nearly a proper sports bike. Its styling was pretty decent, albeit reminiscent of the first-gen CBR600, CBR1000 and Ducati Paso. Its all-enclosed fairing also meant it lacked the hard, race-rep look that would have really played on the firm’s on-track success. Shame, because the bits underneath were serious and included a beautiful aluminium Spondon frame and high-end WP suspension. Around 130 were made and prices today are steep.